50955 Ureter endoscopy & biopsy
Also known as: ureteroscopy with biopsy, ureteral biopsy, ureteroscopic biopsy
Endoscopy of ureter with biopsy via ureteroscope to obtain tissue samples for histologic evaluation.
In Plain Language
camera examination of ureter with tissue sample collection
Clinical Context
Indicated for ureteral lesion, mass, or suspicious tissue evaluation. Provides histologic diagnosis for malignancy or stricture etiology.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.57 |
| Total RVU | 6.57 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 6.57, this code ranks in the 43rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 50955?
CPT 50955 (Ureter endoscopy & biopsy) is a Surgery code. Endoscopy of ureter with biopsy via ureteroscope to obtain tissue samples for histologic evaluation.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 50955?
The work RVU for CPT 50955 is 6.57. This code is primarily used by Urology.
When is CPT 50955 used?
Indicated for ureteral lesion, mass, or suspicious tissue evaluation. Provides histologic diagnosis for malignancy or stricture etiology.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.